The Vauxhall Z24XE is a 2,405 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 24 valves and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, providing smooth linear power and refined cruising for mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra C and Signum, the Z24XE was engineered for drivers seeking balanced performance, acoustic refinement, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and precise electronic throttle control, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the crankcase ventilation system, which can restrict breather flow and elevate internal pressures. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TIS 08‑04‑03, is linked to infrequent oil changes or sustained short-trip driving. Vauxhall later updated the crankcase ventilation (CCV) hose routing and oil separator design to mitigate the problem.
All production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Vauxhall Z24XE is a 2,405 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size executive models (2003–2008). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power and relaxed highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability and moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,405 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 74.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 5W‑30 (or equivalent A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The DOHC V6 layout provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km to prevent sludge buildup in the crankcase ventilation system. GM Dexos2 (or ACEA A3/B4) 5W‑30 oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and sludge resistance. Extended short-trip driving without oil changes can clog the oil separator and increase crankcase pressure, leading to rear main seal leaks. The Bosch Motronic ECU requires OEM-spec spark plugs and coil packs to avoid misfires. Revised CCV hoses introduced in 2006 improve oil vapor separation—pre-2006 engines should consider this retrofit per Vauxhall TIS 08-04-03.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 or ACEA A3/B4 5W-30 specification (Vauxhall SIB 08-04-03).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all Z24XE production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VEC‑P2005).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VEC‑A1234, VEC‑T3001, SIB 08-04-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z24XE was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C and Signum platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Signum and revised engine mounts in the Vectra C Estate—and from 2006 the facelifted models adopted updated CCV components, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS VEC‑ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('X' for 2.4L V6). Early models (2003–2005) use black plastic cam covers with a single breather hose; post-2006 units feature revised dual-hose CCV routing. Critical differentiation from Z32SE: Z24XE is a 2.4L DOHC V6 with Bosch ME7.6 ECU, while Z32SE is a 3.2L variant with different bore/stroke and higher output. Oil separator housing design changed in 2006—pre-2006 parts are not interchangeable without full CCV update (Vauxhall SIB 08-04-03).
The Z24XE's primary reliability risk is crankcase ventilation (CCV) clogging leading to oil sludge and seal leaks, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short urban trips. Vauxhall internal data from 2006 indicated a significant portion of early-build engines required CCV system cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show elevated oil leak failures in high-mileage Vectra C 2.4i models. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil dramatically accelerate sludge formation, making adherence to Dexos2 specification and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2004–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z24XE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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